Winning tip:

Save big when buying large appliances
"We needed a new gas stove and refrigerator. We looked at all the display models, which came in a range of prices, but we noticed that the prices were either very high to very low (the low end was what the salesman called "landlord" appliances). After almost buying the low end of the high range, which still had too many doodads, I asked if there were other models that were not on display. The salesman pulled out a large binder with many more models in the middle of the price range to choose from. For the refrigerator we chose a large model, but without ice maker, separate thermostats, exterior beverage dispenser, or fancy sliding compartments. We did get an Energy Star model, however. This fridge cost under $400. We gave it a coat of Butcher's wax to guard against rust and sent away for an extra set of crisper drawers, since the crisper drawers on our model were a thinner plastic than the expensive models. But it's large enough for our family, doesn't gobble electricity, and saved us over $1,000 when compared to a same-size fridge with accoutrements. As for the stove, we found a $400 model that did not have a clock or an electronic panel and was not self-cleaning. And while the burner grates were not as heavy duty as the expensive stoves, they were more than adequate. The only extra we bought for the stove was an oven handle, since the one on our modest stove was plastic and might need to be replaced some day. We saved at least $1,000 on the stove by buying one that was nice and sleek, but had virtually no parts that might need repair. The moral of the story is, always ask a salesman for his model book. The mid-range appliances are most likely to be found there."